A smart bridge plan
The DB 43 is the first model of the new DB (for Day Boat) range, which the Vendée shipyard had already developed in the 1980s. The concept of the DB is based on the buoyant segment of the luxury Day Boat, with the interior comfort that an express-cruiser can provide, usually used for coastal cruising.
The result of this synthesis of different programs is the DB 43, which offers a very modular deck plan. Indeed, it offers several living areas, to be chosen according to the program and the time of day.
The aft area is equipped with two hydraulically opening side decks, which allow for a very large living area dedicated to swimming and lounging. Thanks to this modular freeboard, the beam increases from 3.82 m to 5.67 m.
The locker under the sundeck can be used to store the raft, as well as a deflated dinghy. For aesthetic purposes, the dock connections are hidden in a small box integrated at the beginning of the starboard gangway.
The hydraulic rear platform (optional) allows the dinghy to be stored and provides easy access to the sea.
An ingenious double bench seat allows the deck plan to change according to the time of day. The aft section can be transformed into a sunbathing area, while the forward bench seat, mounted on sliding rails, can be moved either to allow free movement around the central island or to serve as a seat for the large cockpit table. The kitchen island is very well equipped, with two large sinks, a plancha, a hob and two refrigerators.
The cockpit table can comfortably seat eight guests, well sheltered by the rigid sport-top.
This extends to the cockpit and includes an electrically operated sunroof. For winter sailing, the entire aft living area can be sealed off from the outside with flexible closures, transforming the cockpit into a lounge and benefiting from a heater.
The cockpit is equipped with three convertible bolster seats facing the road. A small cutaway door next to the pilot gives you quick access to the gangway, useful if the boat is moored on a catway or longside.
On the control panel, two large screens group all the information on board. The dashboard is completed by a Volvo joystick, flap controls, bow thruster and all other DB equipment.
Easily accessible thanks to a wide gangway secured by a solid balcony, the front deck is also modular. In front of the windshield, a large sunbathing area with an adjustable backrest can be fitted with a table and another seat can be installed on the cover of the anchor locker, to create a small lounge opposite. The whole area can be protected from the sun by an awning stretched between four removable tubes.
The large anchor locker is compartmentalized, so that the anchor chain and fenders can be stored separately.
Particular care has been taken with the lighting, which provides a reassuring and muted atmosphere. The sport-top is equipped with a strip of LEDs around its entire perimeter, and pop-up lights are distributed in the forward saloon, the galley and in the cabins. The air inlets of the engine room are also equipped with backlighting, which adds a little extra touch to the DB's night-time look.
Very welcoming interior design
Below deck, the DB 43 will be offered in two versions:
- two cabins and two bathrooms
- two cabins, one bathroom and a "breakfast point", the version we tried
This small kitchen inserted at the foot of the descent allows to prepare a breakfast or a quick snack.
At the front, the owner's cabin offers great amenities with plenty of storage space, a large closet and a mini-bar. There is a lot of light in this interior, where the feeling of space is reinforced by large upholstered surfaces.
The second cabin is equipped with a double bed facing a small bench, convertible into a child's bed. Numerous storage spaces, as well as a closet are also provided in this "guest" area.
The ventilation of the two cabins is ensured by the deck panels and the small portholes integrated in the plexiglass strips of the freeboard.
A hull that can withstand anything
Our sailing conditions were rather invigorating, with an easterly wind of 20-25 knots in the bay of Cannes, offering us a short irregular chop, which is ideal for testing the qualities of this 13.06 m long straight-bowed hull. Our test version was equipped with the inboard diesel engine, consisting of two Volvo D6 blocks, each developing 380 horsepower, with Aquamatic bases. An outboard version powered by three blocks with a total of 1050 hp (3 x 350 hp) will also be offered in the catalog.
Despite the unfavorable conditions, we reached a maximum speed of 33 knots. The DB 43 is moving at an engine speed of 2,500 rpm, which corresponds to a speed of about 15 knots.
Half-filled during our test, the two fuel tanks offer a storage capacity of 800 liters, leaving a nice autonomy.
For the outboard version, the shipyard announces a maximum speed of almost 40 knots.
The hull of the DB 43 is very sound in rough seas, running on rails in a straight line as well as in tight curves. We didn't hit a single bump during our navigation. The navigation is very safe thanks to the imposing freeboard, the presence of many handrails and the presence of two stainless steel gates that close the rear cockpit.
As is often the case with this type of boat, maneuvering in port is easy thanks to the Volvo Joystick, which acts on both bases, while the thruster remains available in case of strong crosswinds.
Serious advantages over the competition
By positioning itself on the premium day boat market, Jeanneau is facing German and Italian productions that have been popular on the market for many years. Despite increased competition, the Vendée shipyard has succeeded in its challenge. The DB 43 offers a quality of reception and services unequalled in this segment. Its modular deck plan, its level of finish and its marine qualities place it a notch above its competitors. For a budget of around 900,000 euros (including tax) (base price), the DB 43 is well placed and has serious assets to impose itself in its category.
